Following the shootings, Pierre says he convened an emergency meeting with the high command of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force to review security strategies and intensify operations.

He confirmed that the police will implement stronger measures to restore public safety.

“In response to Saturday’s events, the police have informed me that there will be an increase in police presence and around-the-clock surveillance in crime hotspot areas. Other measures have also been employed to frustrate the movement of criminals across the country.”

PM Pierre Pierre described the incidents as “senseless violence” and stressed that the safety of communities will not be compromised by criminal activity.

“This senseless violence must come to an end. We will not allow the safety of our streets and communities to be compromised by those who have clearly lost respect for human lives. Every effort will be made to break the cycle of violence, particularly gang-related reprisals,” declared the Prime Minister.

He emphasised that the fight against crime must be a shared national responsibility.

“This is not the time to attribute blame or politicise the incidence of crime. The fight against crime is a collective effort that requires the support of all law-abiding citizens,” he said.

Pierre also reminded the nation that stricter gun laws have already been enacted to ensure tougher penalties for illegal possession, trafficking, and supply of firearms. He assured criminals that the state will not relent in pursuing justice.